I am excited for this semester because: Spring and summer are just around the corner and, although I am a big fan of sweaters, scarves and riding boots, I can’t WAIT for warm weather and new outfits!

My absolute favorite thing about spring is: It immediately follows winter, a season I absolutely loathe, and brings with it colorful flowers, pastel everything and exciting new wardrobe changes (not to mention more desirable temperatures).

My dream vacation would be: Trekking through Europe to every single city on my travel bucket list (a grand total of 21 countries and 63 specific cities) … yes, I know I have a sickness. I prefer to call it wanderlust! My number one recipe for this semester is: Broccoli cheese bites — a super easy, scrumptious and relatively healthy recipe.

My number one DIY project for this semester is: Making sugar scrubs. I recently became obsessed over the holidays when I made a whole bunch of them as gifts for friends, plus one for my own personal use. They smell absolutely fabulous, not to mention the ingredients are all natural and easy on your skin!

I get my inspiration from: A lot of people and places, but especially from watching Rachel Zoe kick butt at her job. She was the person who made me realize I could find work pertaining to fashion, which is something I’ve always loved without consciously realizing it was what I wanted to do with my life. My friends would describe me as: Loyal, reliable, humorous, and stylish.

My definition of a classy co-ed is: Someone who knows her potential and knows her worth with the ability to flaunt her personal style, yet remains humble and down-to-Earth in attitude.

I am excited to be a College Lifestyles™ team member because: This type of work is exactly what I picture myself doing in the future. There is no job more perfect for an aspiring fashion/beauty writer like myself! Images courtesy of Lindsey Todd.

Sorority conferences are a great way to become informed about the other chapters in your organization as well as another opportunity to get to know more of your genuine sorority sisters from around the country. Here are some fabulous tips from some sorority ladies about what to pack for a fun weekend where you will get to learn more about the rituals and traditions your organization has to offer.

Photo Courtesy of photostock/freedigitalphotos.net

Don’t pack too much

Whether you’re going away for two weeks or just two days you may tend to run in to the same problem: over-packing. You may run into a situation where you pack too many clothes and don’t end up wearing half of them.

“Pack a light load because you will probably be getting a lot of gifts and things from other chapters and you will need to be able to bring them home. It’s always easier to travel lightly. It’s only a weekend,” Brette Wayne, Sigma Delta Tau senior at Indiana University, said.

Putting your clothes on hangers is also beneficial because you most likely will be sharing a room with several other girls where space will be limited. Folding your clothes in half rather than quarters will also be helpful so they lie flatter in your suitcase and take up less space.

Photo Courtesy of Keerati/freedigitalphotos.net

However, you must remember to pack the essentials

“Pack business casual clothing because there will be a lot of alumnae and directors, and it is better to show that you are a strong woman with leadership values. You can’t do that if you dress sloppy,” Hayley Grossman, Sigma Delta Tau senior at Indiana University, said.

Dressing professionally will also make you feel good and have an even more productive weekend.

“Packing clothes that can be mix and matched is key! But it’s nice being with sisters who will let you borrow things if you need it!” Kelli Dunagan, Alpha Omicron Pi senior at Samford University said.

“Store jewelry and badge in a small pill box, or already have pinned on your first outfit. Wrap white dresses in tissue or linen bag so nothing spills on it. Pick neutrals with one pop color (example – black, white, purple or gray, white, yellow) so you can have the same jewelry, etc,” Shelly Marie Redmond, Editor-in-Chief at College Lifestyles™ said.

Next time you have a sorority conference to go to, don’t freak out about packing. Being smartand remembering these tips will lead to a successful and memorable convention with your sisters.

Need more sorority life tips? Check out these helpful CL articles for just that!

It’s summertime, and we’re sure you all are getting to the point where you miss your classy sorority sisters every time you find yourself sitting alone being bored. However, there is a way to fix this! Here are five books that sorority girls recommend you to read over this long summer. Before you know it, you’ll be sitting back at school with your sisters talking about these books.

1. “Glitter and Glue (A Memoir)” by Kelly Corrigan

This book is about the difference between travel and life experience, stepping out and stepping up, fathers and mothers. But mostly, it’s about whom you admire and why, and how that changes overtime. Kaila Gilbert who is a rising senior in Sigma Delta Tau recommended this book.

“I really enjoyed this book, it put in to perspective what kind of relationship you really have with your mother and how it changes over time,” she said.

Before this book comes out in the theatres on Friday, June 6,you have to finish it. 16-year-old Hazel who has been diagnosed with cancer narrates the book. She falls in love with Augustus Waters, an ex-basketball player and amputee. Izzy Metz, a sophisticated senior in Sigma Delta Tau at Indiana University feels this book is a great read for sorority girls.

“I liked it because it was heart felt and emotional. I liked the romance in the book; and the characters were young which made them easy to connect to. The book had twists and turns you wouldn’t expect, and that made me want to read more. Sorority girls would enjoy this book because of our age. The romance touches us and lures girls in. It is very modern, which makes it easy to relate to. It is very real,” Metz said.

Walter Isaacson has written a story of the roller-coaster life and intense personality of the creative Steve Jobs whose passion for perfection and drive revolutionized in many different industries. Elise Ruff, a senior in Alpha Delta Pi at Indiana University just read this book last summer.

She said, “I think that would be a great book for sorority women to read for many reasons. First, I believe Steve Jobs and his accomplishments do not define what would be considered your stereotypical success story and he emphasized hard work and creativity. But he also talked a lot about his darker days and showed me that even the most successful people aren’t perfect, but those experiences shape the type of person they are.”

Photo Courtesy of http://stepheniemeyer.com/twilight.html

4. “Twilight” by Stephanie Myers

#TBT anyone??? This is an oldie, but goodie. The somewhat original, vampire-themed fantasy romance novel has had everyone on his or her toes since 2005. Even though this book was published many years ago, people still look forward to re-watching, re-reading and going to see or read for the first time the latest books in the Twilight series. Jessie Fryman, a senior in Alpha Epsilon Phi feels that Twilight will always be a favorite of hers.

“Twilight shows how a woman can completely lose her self of independence and fall apart when a guy leaves. This often happens with sorority girls, so it is good to have a reminder about what can go wrong when you do this with your relationships,” she said.

5. “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg

A truly equal world would be one where woman ran half our countries and companies and men ran half our homes.. This is pretty much the message in this novel. The story talks about how to get there. Melissa Shumacher a senior in Alpha Phi at Northwestern University believes this book is great for sorority girls

She said, “It challenges the assumption that men rule the workforce and allows us to think about what women can do to succeed at a high professional level. Great read for college girls about to start their career paths.”

Whether you are out in the sun with your toes in the sand, or sitting at home on the couch, grab one of these books. All of these sorority girls can guarantee you will not be able to put them down. They all take different approaches and remind us there is no such thing as the “stereotypical” sorority girl. Each girl is unique in her own way just like these five modern novels.

Gallery

#img# The winter months may have just begun but spring recruitment is right around the corner! Sorority women love recruitment and gaining new members. Spring recruitment means the school year is almost … Read More

Glitter, gold, silver, black… Having to choose how you want to do your nails for New Years Eve can be a big decision. You probably know just about every nail design there is when it comes to New Years Eve nails, but you may be wondering what will be popular this year. While glittery nail polish is still the main go-to, there are other options as well.

My dream job is: To work in the magazine industry as a photographer, designer or writer. If I know that I am providing content to an audience that I was once a part of then I will be the happiest girl.

I get my inspiration from: Absolutely everything. Recently, it has been music but tomorrow it could be art or a stranger.

From the personal photo collection of Alicia Vega

My favorite way to relax during the semester is: Watch copious amounts of Netflix.

This semester, I plan to accomplish: Everything and more, I really want to do well in school but more importantly, I want to meet new people and try new things.

My friends would describe me as: A dedicated, confident, fun girl with a good attitude.

My favorite College Lifestyles™ article was: Maggie Popick’s article called “Top Five Lazy Day In Looks” because thanks to this article, I can look cute but still feel comfortable.

My definition of a classy co-ed is: A classy co-ed is someone who feels comfortable in his or her own skin. They take control of their world and affect someone else’s.

I am excited to be a College Lifestyles™ Intern because: I want to see what CLhas to offer and what I can offer to our wonderful classy audience.

My celebrity dream date is: Niall Horan, Ed Sheeran or Chris Hemsworth…. I have a thing for accents. I also love Rick Porcello!

My dream job is: Working for a fashion or entertainment magazine in NYC or LA.

I get my inspiration from: Listening to music, reading, taking walks and the people around me. Inspiration is everywhere!

Image courtesy of Laura DuCharme

My favorite way to relax during the semester is: Watching movies with my roommates and catching up with friends I don’t get to see very often. If I have a lot of spare time I also like to knit.

This semester, I plan to accomplish: I would like to visit my friends that go to different schools more. I know it will be hard with a busier schedule, but I want to stay in touch more with my friends.

My friends would describe me as: Bubbly, kind and ambitious.

My favorite College Lifestyles™ article was: How to be confident in an interview.

My definition of a classy co-ed is: Someone who is confident, ambitious and dresses nice! They are not afraid to ask questions and are involved in school so they can get ahead in their career.

I am excited to be a College Lifestyles™ Intern because: I love what College Lifestyles™ has to offer! Not many magazines are targeted towards college students so this is a great way for classy co-eds to get information they need. I am excited to write for students who are just like me.

We’re over a month into the fall internship at College Lifestyles™, which means it’s time for us to recognize one of our classy interns. This month, it’s West Virginia University co-edand CL Fashion/Beauty WriterJacqie Brooks!

Why was Jacqie voted Intern of the Month?

“Jacqie has been contributing [to] the CL website by writing amazing articles that had great content and well-thought photo contributions. Moreover, she’s been promoting the CL website beyond the requirements.” – Michelle Kim, Fashion/Beauty Team Member

“I think Jacqie Brooks has been contributing a lot even as an intern. I’ve enjoyed reading her stories that were sorted with well-thought images. Jacqie has also been promoting the CL website more than the given requirements.” – Fashion/Beauty Team Member

“Jacqie Brooks has been a star intern this month. You can tell she works very hard on her stories and is dedicated to CL. She’s been dominating the stats with her articles and is always doing a good job of promoting.” – Fashion/Beauty Team Member

From the personal photo collection of Jacqie Brooks

How does Jacqie feel about winning Intern of the Month at CL?

“When I found out I was named Intern of the Month, I felt so accomplished. It means so much to me that my teammates and bosses think I’m doing a good job with my work. I try my best to impress them and our readers.”

What would she say to someone considering interning with CL?

“I think CL is a perfect place to start if you want to go into magazine writing. But even more than that, I’d try to encourage people to intern because of the people you can meet and opportunities you can have. The entire staff is like a family, and people are willing to help one another. Plus, seeing your articles published every week is amazing.”

Kailin Tintes might be new to the scene, but trust me, this lady is a true fashionista in the city of Columbia, Missouri. Take a step back in the 80’s with her, because she is going to show you how to wear the new Bold and Vibrant Color Blocking look. As you know, a Classy co-ed must remain intact with the latest trends strutting down the runway. If this trend is still not enough for you check out the ’80s Must Have Of The Month: 80′s Purple Shades

From the Personal collection of Kailin Tintes.

CL: What is color blocking?

KT: The term color blocking refers to wearing any solid color, particularly bold, that tends to look like blocks. You can have a white shirt with multiple colorful blocks or a solid pink shirt with a solid blue pant.

Image Courtsey of wordpress.com

CL: Since the fall is coming in, what items do you recommend color blocking with?

KT: Cardigans, dresses, belts, wedges and tights. I try to keep the look concise and classic because it is a really bold style.

CL: How should classy co-eds color block in a way that complements their skin complexion and height?

KT: For co-eds, I definitely suggest picking out the colors that compliments your skin color and figure. Color blocking is a very loud look, and it can easily be overdone. Just be sure that the colors you choose suit your figure and complexion, then all will fall inplace.

CL: What colors or accessories should classy co-eds search for to dress for their body type?

The only direction they are going is straight to the top! One Direction, the London-based pop band, which rose to critical acclaim in 2010 on the televised singing competition, The X Factor, were originally just five solo acts looking for a chance to make their dreams a reality. So, how did five boys from London go on to become one of the biggest pop sensations of our generation? Well it may seem like a simple process, but it certainly didn’t happen overnight!

Fun Fact: On their official website biography, the boys explain how they each auditioned and were chosen as individual performers, but after failing to qualify for the “Boys” category of the competition, Nicole Scherzinger and Simon Cowell suggested that they form a group. So they pulled together, and at the end of only two weeks spent together bonding as a band, One Direction was formed. The name was chosen because the boys decided that they all had likeminded goals and were headed in… one direction!

Current Projects: In two short years the boys banned together to record their first two albums, “Up All Night” and “Take Me Home,” which boasted singles such as “What Makes you Beautiful”, “One Thing”, and “Love You First”. Currently you can find them in their new movie “One Direction: This is Us,” which premiers on August 30th 2013. The film can be seen in 3D and is an in-depth look at the lives of the band members, as well as exclusive concert footage of a show they performed at the London O2 Arena, and clips from their time on the X Factor. The Band’s third album, “Where We Are,” is set to be released later this year and has already earned a VMA nod for the first single, “Best Song Ever.”

Community Outreach and Charities: This group does more than bust out chart topping singles and fabulous concerts. They also use their star power and influence to give back to the community. The band has already committed to donating £200,000 of their Where We Are tour proceeds to the charity, Stand up to Cancer. This charity is designed to help raise funds and awareness for cancer research through online and televised efforts.

Why they are Classy Gentlemen: In three years, One Direction has found a way to garner a highly dedicated fan base for their music, and create a fresh new voice for future generations. Not only are they incredibly talented, they are a genuine group of young men seeking to have a positive influence on the world. We hope to see more of them in the coming years, and cannot wait for all they have in store! Stay classy, One Direction!

My favorite way to relax is: reading a good book or watching re-runs of “Pretty Little Liars” on Netflix.

This fall, I plan to accomplish: finding an apartment.

My friends would describe me as: caring, busy and motivated.

My favorite College Lifestyles™ article was: I love this article by our fall Fashion/Beauty Co-Editor and High School/College Prep Editor Alexis Hallinin on “5 Classy Braids for College.” Quick and easy hairstyles that are sure to impress all your classmates!

My definition of a classy co-ed is: an independent young woman who dares to go for her dreams, lifting up others along the way, and never letting the little things get her down.

I am excited to be a College Lifestyles™ Staff Member because: The fall semester marks my second year as Managing Editor for this fabulous organization, and I am so excited to learn even more about the magazine world, and to see what this confident group of ladies has to bring to it!

I am excited to be back at school because: I am stoked to be reunited with my college roommates, and I am really excited to be back in the beautiful state of Colorado!

My favorite thing about fall is: The way the leaves change colors and fall to the ground, leaving room for something even more beautiful to take their place.

From the personal photo collection of Vannessa Jackson

My number one recipe for this fall is: Anything that provides healthy dorm eating is a favorite of mine, but I also have a bit of a sweet tooth! So, Kelly Sloan’s recipe for strawberry ice cream is perfect for me! Check out Intern Kitchen: Strawberry Ice Cream

My favorite fall accessory is: I love scarves worn in the fall. They are always a classic staple of any outfit and can really make your wardrobe pop!

My definition of a classy co-ed is: A woman who is confident in who she is, yet strives every day to be a better version of herself. Someone who is constantly looking for opportunities to achieve her goals, and still makes time to look fabulous while doing it!

I am excited to be a College Lifestyles™ Intern because: I love to write and inform, and I have a heart for college age women looking for information about all things classy, confident, and chic!

So you finally conquered your four (or more) years of college and are fresh on the hunt for a job. In this highly competitive job market, it’s important to ensure you’re doing everything you can to give yourself an edge on other applicants.

Everyone applying for your “dream job” has a degree from a university just like you – sad, but the truth. Though they may have a similar piece of paper you will soon have the upper hand. College Lifestyles (TM) wants you to be aware of ways you may be unknowingly sabotaging your own career before it begins.

What is more inspiring than a co-ed changing the world?Shae Snyder, founder of Wishmakers on Campus at West Virginia University, is doing just that.This classy girl is nothing short of incredible with an impressive résumé and strong determination to improve the lives of children with serious illnesses.Not many people can say their college career was filled with life changing experiences like this, which she was able to be a part of because of an internship with the National Make-A-Wish Foundation.Make-A-Wish is an organization that grants the wish of a child in the United States with a life-threatening medical condition.College Lifestyles™ had the honor of talking to Shae to find out how remarkable both she and this organization are.

CL: How did you get involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation?

Shae Snyder:When I was in high school I lost a friend to cancer. He had a wish granted before he passed away.Seeing him get his wish granted and watching Make-A-Wish recreate a happiness that he and his family had lost along his battle with cancer really inspired me to get involved with the organization.In college I realized that’s what I wanted to do.

CL:What was it like to intern with the National Foundation?

SS:Interning at National was the best experience I had in my college career.It was an amazing opportunity and experience especially because of the people I worked with.They became known as my “intern family.”It really proved Make-A-Wish to me.Before I had only seen them at a local level, so seeing them at a cooperate level being so down to earth and humbled blew me away and made me fall in love with the organization even more.

Image courtesy of Shae Snyder

CL: What advice would you give to girls who are starting an internship?

SS:Get to know the organization really well.It’s very important to demonstrate that you’re well-rounded and you bring something to the table and understand the mission.Also, go in there with confidence.You’re young and have a lot of fresh ideas and new perspectives.When I first started my internship with Make-A-Wish, I was a little timid to contribute my ideas and it was brought to my attention that I was being too quiet.So I decided to be more confident in myself and they were very open to my ideas.Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

CL: Have you ever been rejected for a job or internship?

SS:Yes, I have applied for several internships that I didn’t get. Funny story: Once I was interviewed for a Public Relations position with the Boston Bruins and totally embarrassed myself.They asked if I considered myself to have a sense of humor.I said, “Yeah, I think I’m a funny person.”So they said, “Great, tell us a joke.” I completely blanked.I didn’t have any jokes on the top of my head.I had been memorizing players, their background and how the Bruins were founded with all my notes on my lap during the phone interview.I panicked and completely froze.I ended up telling a terrible joke and it was humiliating.But it was a learning experience.I think it’s important to stay confident in yourself even after rejection because you know what you can offer and if they don’t see it, it’s their loss.

Elizabeth Kiefer, or as her friends call her, “E,” is currently going into her junior year at the Pennsylvania State University at University Park. She is a double major with Risk Management and Political Science. E is a very involved student at Penn State and was “co-rush chair” of her business fraternity, Phi Beta Lambda, last Spring semester. She was also on the Finance Committee for THON, Penn State’s own student-run 46 hour dance marathon that raises money for Pediatric Cancer.

When asked what her goals were for the future, E replied: “Get out of my comfort zone more, which I will be doing when I study abroad in Germany next semester. I can’t wait to go to Germany because of all the interesting food and the culture. It will be completely new because I don’t know any German.” Part of her program is spending twenty-something days traveling around Europe studying the Politics and Economics of Germany. E added, “other than going abroad which is something I have always wanted to do, I want to get another internship. I am going to keep developing professionally and get as much experience as I can!”

East Side Gallery in Berlin, Germany. Photo Credit: Aria E. Moyer

E currently has an internship this summer with Liberty Mutual in the Insurance Claims department. When she isn’t at her internship she works at a catering restaurant on the weekends; she loves food! Her favorite is tacos and anything spicy. E loves big cities and plans on moving to either New York or San Fransisco in the future.

PSU Football Game. Photo Credit: Allie Tedesco

This classy girl is definitely on her way to a successful career and is looking forward to her remaining two years at Penn State. She enjoys hanging out with friends, meeting new people, staying involved and trying new things.

Amy Koch is a rising sophomore at Misercordia University in Dallas, Pennsylvania. She is studying biology and is accepted into Misercordia’s six and a half year doctorate plan for physical therapy. Despite her rigorous academic schedule, Amy is involved in various college organizations and makes living healthily a priority. One of my best friends for many years, Amy and I are very similar people, but have had quite different experiences in college. She dishes to CL about how she survived her freshman year.

CL: What was your favorite part of your first year at Misercordia University?

AK: I’d have to say my favorite part about freshman year was a service trip I took over spring break. All of second semester I was a part of service learning class, where I learned about one of Misericordia’s main values- service. After completing the eight week course, I was a part of a group of about 15 that went to Mercy Neighborhood in Northern Philadelphia. For the week, I worked in an activity room for senior citizens and in a tutoring program for kids after school. I made so many friends from Misericordia during this amazing week, all the while learning lessons and making memories I’ll never forget.

Photo Credit: From the personal collection of Amy Koch.

CL: Was it hard to adjust as a freshman?

AK: Adjusting to life at college was a little hard, only because it was like something I’d never done before. I was used to going to camps for a week or two, but after the week was over, I always came home. So for me adjusting to not seeing my family for a month at a time was difficult. However, not coming home and staying on campus for the first few weekends was a big help because I met some awesome people that were feeling the same way as me.

CL: How did you decide upon your major, biology/physical therapy?

AK: The summer before senior year I volunteered at the Reading Hospital in the physical therapy department. During that time I realized that I really liked what physical therapists do, and from there I started looking into the field more. I love working with and caring for people, so to me studying physical therapy seemed like a perfect match. At Misericordia, there are several options for an undergrad degree for people in the PT program, and I picked studying bio because I felt as if that would best prepare me for grad school.

CL: In what ways do you think your six and a half-year program will benefit you in the long run?

AK: I think being a part of the six and a half year program will greatly benefit me mainly because I know I’m already accepted into the PT program. As long as I keep up my GPA and do well in all my science classes, I will go directly from undergraduate classes to the PT program without having to reapply. The fact that the program is a straight-through program was one of the main reasons I chose to go to Misericordia.

CL: How important do you think being involved in co-curricular activities in college is and why?

AK: I think getting involved in college is super important and can really make or break your college experience. First semester of my freshman year I struggled with homesickness and I think that was due to my lack of involvement. Second semester I went out of my comfort zone and joined several groups which definitely made my time at school more enjoyable.

CL: What activities are you involved in and why did you choose them?

AK: I joined Chamber Singers which is a choral group because I love singing and I knew I would feel comfortable being a part of the group. Thanks to my involvement in choir, I tried out and was selected to be in the spring musical “Working.” I also was elected to be the class of 2016’s Activities Coordinator. I love planning activities and doing service projects, which is what the position requires, so I was really excited when I was elected. I’m also an Orientation Leader. I chose to get involved with freshmen orientation because I want to help make the transition to college life successful for freshmen like others did for me last year.

Photo Credit: From the personal collection of Amy Koch.

CL: How do you balance your academic schedule with your co-curricular involvements?

AK: Time management is really important when it comes to balancing my school work and my other activities. School work comes first, so I’m always working ahead and trying to stay on schedule with my classes. For me, being busy pushes me to get my work done on time. Rather than relaxing in the dorms, I try to make better use of my time so I can get more done in the day.

CL: I know that living a healthy lifestyle is very important to you, how do you fit working out and eating nutritiously into your life at college?

AK: I try to go to the gym between classes, and if I don’t have time I’ll go later that night. For me, working out is a great way to relieve stress and get away from school work for an hour. I also try to go on a few runs a week to clear my head and get fresh air. As for the eating, I steer clear of the grill, fries, desserts and soda. Most of my meals have a side salad and for something sweet I’ll have peanut butter toast or chocolate milk. Weekends are a different story though, and my salads are replaced with ice cream.

CL: What are you looking forward to in your sophomore year at Misercordia?

AK: I’m really looking forward to continuing to make Misericordia my home. I’m living in a town-house with five other girls, so I’m excited to see how that works out. I also hope to take a leadership class and join an a cappella group this semester. And of course I’m looking forward to taking my biology classes that’ll bring me one step closer to a degree.

CL: What advice do you have for an incoming classycollege freshman?

AK: I would tell incoming freshmen to stay on campus as much as possible and to get involved. I know that’s what everyone says, but it’s so important! Staying on campus helps you to get acclimated quicker and to make friends with people in your dorm. Getting involved helps you to feel like you have a purpose and helps to make your college experience one to remember!

For classy- coed Amy Koch, getting involved in college, working out and leaving her comfort zone proved to be stress relievers and have improved her college experience. Amy is an intelligent young woman bound for a successful career in physical therapy.

A last minute decision to cheer on her old team sealed Liz Stilwell’s fate. In just her first year of coaching, Stilwell turned a disorganized group of dancers into National Dance Association challenge cup winners, finalists, and official university athletes. And that’s not all! After graduating Boston University in 2008, Stilwell moved out to New York City to achieve her masters in clinical psychology at Columbia University, but she didn’t stop there. Stilwell applied to schools all over, but after receiving the BUDT coaching job, her mind was made up that Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology was the place to earn her Ph.D. Since then, Stilwell has balanced being the coach of a top five ranked college dance team, a doctoral student, writing her dissertation, and working clinicals. How does she stay successful and classy? CL had to find out!

CL: How did you first get into dancing? When did you start?

LS: I started when I was two and a half. My parents enrolled me in dance because I was very shy and uncoordinated. When I was young, I was always tripping over my feet and actually still have a scar from one time when I fell and broke my nose. My parents thought dance class would help improve my clumsy ways.

From the photo collection of Jillian Skuza

CL: What was one of your favorite memories on the BUDT? Did your experiences while on the team influence your decision to take the job as coach?

LS: My favorite memory is my senior year when we won challenge cup to make it to finals and then moved up from 11th to 7th place. It was our first year in Division I and we really felt like underdogs. I passed up a great internship opportunity to be on the team that year and I wanted more than anything to graduate feeling like I had made the right decision. That 2007-2008 team became a second family to me and BUDT forever became a part of who I was. When the team was struggling to find its direction a few years later and I knew I was moving back to Boston to start graduate school, I knew I had to be involved with the program again. What I wanted to bring back to the team was a sense of ambition and appreciation for hard work.

CL: Doctoral student, writing your dissertation, clinicals, and BUDT coach, how do you balance it all?!

LS: That is a great question. A lot of people have advised me to slow down and to cut back on everything I am involved with but I find it hard to give up any of it. I love what I do. Studying to become a psychologist and teaching dance are equally important to me and parts of who I am. I am very lucky that I get to do both as my job. When it gets tough (as it often does) I just remind myself to take it one step at a time-one task after the next.

From the photo collection of Liz Stilwell

CL: Do you take things from your professional life and apply it to your coaching?

LS: My background in psychology has greatly influenced my coaching and vice versa. Understanding how teams work is complex and motivating others to succeed can be even more challenging. My training has taught me that it is the make up and the construction of the team that can be more important than the qualities of the leader or coach. I believe that the coach’s main job is to provide the type of environment and training that the team needs to succeed. A coach should help to establish the conditions or find the “groove” in which the team can create their own destiny. I never demand greatness from my team; however, I always expect them to give it their all and I am genuine in my feedback. The most valuable thing I have learned as a coach is to validate my dancers expectations and limitations while challenging them to rise above.

CL: Your dedication and drive is pretty unmatched, do you have any advice for those working hard to reach their goals?

LS: Stick with it. It may not be today, it may not be tomorrow, it may not be easy, but the most successful people I know are those who are passionate about what they do. I always look for the dancers who are relentlessly practicing, asking questions, and come to class knowing their routine. To me dedication and drive beat talent any day of the week. How does the saying goes.. “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”

You know those nights when you’re on Netflix till the morning hours, clicking “play” on your laptop so many times that there aren’t any more episodes to play? You look around your dark dorm room wondering what to do next. All you want is to cry to your roommate about your favorite show ending, but you can’t because she’s asleep like a normal person. We all have a show that has given us this feeling of “what do I do with my life now” after it’s over and the co-eds at College Lifestyles™ would like to share the ones they wish they could keep clicking “play” for a new episode.

Brittani Wilson currently attends the University of Missouri but calls small town Arbyrd in southern Missouri, home. She is actively pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English degree. While her hobbies include exercising, socializing, and watching movies like most college students do, she also spends a lot of time reading and writing. Brittani is currently writing her first young adult fiction novel which she plans to publish upon graduation. The idea first came to her six years ago and she has been working on it ever since. Some of her other future goals include publishing a series of books as well as having a career based solely on her writing.

Brittani is an intelligent young woman who is also very genuine and down to earth. This classy-coed is definitely someone you should know!

Photo Credit: From the personal photo collection of Brittani Wilson

CL: How did you know you wanted to pursue an English degree?

BW: In high school I always took extra English courses as well as in college. I started off as a Pre-Med major but realizing later that English was really what I loved.

CL: What do you love most about your major?

BW: That there are no right or wrong answers. As long as you can support your answer you can always be right.

CL: Do you have a favorite quote you look to for inspiration?

BW: “To now endure, to now fly, to now inspire” written by Ralph Waldo Emerson in “The American Scholar.” He basically advised Americans that if we continue to work hard and pursue our dreams that we will succeed and be an inspiration to other nations. So I try to apply this to my everyday life.

Photo Credit: From the personal photo collection of Brittani Wilson

CL: How do you stay classy while attending college?

BW: I keep things that are important to me my main priorities which are friends and family, my classes, and working.

CL: What advice would you give readers who want to pursue writing as a hobby or career? Don’t get discouraged in the beginning if you think your story is dumb. You have to keep going or you won’t get very far with it.

Photo Credit: From the personal photo collection of Brittani Wilson

From a small town in southern Missouri to college at Mizzou, classy co-ed Brittani Wilson has big plans for her future writing career.

Only the perfect man could be described as the impossible combination of funny, talented, driven, generous and attractive with a little bit of a dangerous, bad-boy edge.However, “Maroon 5” lead singer Adam Levine captivates each of these qualities flawlessly.How does he do it?This week, CL set out to discover the secret behind this ruggedly handsome rock star with a spotlight – and not the one that’s coming from center stage.

Image courtesy of maroon5.com

Name:Adam Levine

Birthday:March 18, 1979

Fun Fact:Adam proves that yoga isn’t just for limber women by swearing by its health benefits every day.He is so passionate about it that he even takes an instructor on tour so that he can do yoga before every show.

Projects:Adam has always been a talented musician, but it wasn’t until 2011 when he joined NBC’s hit show, “The Voice,” that his popularity skyrocketed.Since then he has started an acting career as a frequent character on “American Horror Story,” launched his own fragrance line, and is currently on tour with his band, “Maroon 5,” Kelly Clarkson and Rozzi Crane.

Image courtesy of maroon5.com

Community Outreach and Charities: Another fun fact about Adam is that he was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a child.He has since come to terms with his ADHD and has been able to control it as he came into his adult years.To spread awareness of this disorder, he helped launch the “Own It” campaign to support people with ADHD and let others know what they can do to help.

Why is Adam a gentleman?At only age 34, Adam has accomplished far more than the average person, with four dynamic records and a rising TV personality, but it’s the humble acceptance of fame that makes him a classy guy.When asked if being the front man of a hot band makes him cocky by “Cosmopolitan” writer Tracy Shaffer, he replied, “a little, but in a playful, non-arrogant way.”It’s this kind of fun, witty attitude that draws people to him and gives him the allure that makes him succeed.It’s too bad he’s off the market now with a recent engagement to Victoria Secret model Behati Prinsloo.So, sorry ladies, but it looks like it’s time to cross out the “I heart Adam” doodles in your notebooks and find a new gentleman to take his place.

Can’t get enough of handsome, successful men?Check out these other gorgeous guys!

Cory Monteith may be gone but will never be forgotten, and neither will his outstanding performances on the Fox hit series, “Glee.” As we look back on Cory’s career, CL is here to share the most memorable moments that his character, Finn, provided for his audiences over the seasons. These moments are what gave the show its spark, whether it was a spark of love between him and Rachel or a spark of ambition that came across as he sang his heart out on stage.

Tragedy has struck family, friends and fans of the talented Cory Monteith after his recent passing. Cory left a mark on the world because of his winning personality, compassion for others and dedication to doing what he loves. Just one look at his Twitter page shows even those who didn’t know him the fun-loving guy he was. His Twitter bio states, “tall, awkward, Canadian, actor, drummer, person,” but we know he was much more than that.

Image courtesy of cory-monteith.com

Name: Cory Monteith

Birthday: Cory was born on May 11, 1982; making him only 31 when he passed.

Fun Fact: Finn’s drumming skills on “Glee” weren’t just good acting; Cory was actually the drummer for his band, “Bonnie Dune.”

Projects: Although he was best known for his starring role as Finn Hudson on the hit Fox series, “Glee,” Cory was trying to separate himself from the character and develop a stronger acting identity. He made a turning point this past year to advance his career by starting two movie roles. Cory was playing the role of James in “All the Wrong Reasons,” a film about four co-workers in a department store who deal with a heart-rending incident. He was also set to play Simon in the production of “McCanick.” The status of these movies is yet to be determined.

Image courtesy of cory-monteith.com

Community Outreach and Charities: Although Cory tried to disconnect himself from Finn, it’s easy to compare the two because of their talent, open minds, easy going personalities and support of the gay and lesbian community. Cory was a GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) activist and fought for equality for everyone. He even hosted the 23rd Annual GLAAD Media Awards with Naya Rivera last year. Cory will be missed for his entertaining ability, but he will be forever in the hearts of his fans because of acts of service like this.

Why was Cory a Classy Gentleman? His caring warmth is a big part of what made Cory a well-rounded gentleman, but he also had many positive attributes that took him a step further. His charm that came across on screen made his fans fall in love and feel like they knew him personally. It takes an incredible person to relate to people you don’t even know, and that is why Cory Monteith will be remembered lovingly.

Forget laser tag or go-kart racing if you’re looking for an action-packed weekend. The movie theater has more action in store than those activities combined, with selections that will put you on the edge of your seat. Coming to theaters today are riveting movies guaranteed to satisfy your need for a thrill, so grab your classy friends and check out the exciting options.

“Maniac”

Elijah Wood plays a psychotic killer in this horror film about a guy who is just lonely. But does loneliness justify what he is willing to do to have companions in his life? You can make that call once you see the terrifying things he does to the women he comes in contact with. This flick dares to show the demented side of people, so decide how daring you are to watch it.

Image courtesy of facebook.com/maniacmovie

“A Hijacking”

This nerve-racking movie is about a crew on a cargo ship that is hijacked by pirates on the Indian Ocean. The men on the ship are taken hostage so that their company will pay a significant amount of money for their lives. It becomes an intense decision making process as the company decides how to return the men on board home safely. This movie will keep you guessing as the tension builds throughout it.

Image courtesy of ahijacking.com

“World War Z”

“World War Z’s” tagline, “there will be no warning,” foreshadows just how suspenseful this apocalyptic flick will be. Brad Pitt stars as a husband and a father of two little girls who is torn between the decision to stay with his family or save mankind from the pandemic that is eating through the human race. In the meantime he is faced with many obstacles in order to keep his life and the lives of his family at a safe range from the spreading virus. You are sure to be gripping your armrests during this film as you follow Pitt through this enthralling journey to what could be the end of the world as we know it.

Image courtesy of worldwarzmovie.com

“The Haunting of Helena”

If “Maniac” doesn’t sound disturbing enough for you, “The Haunting of Helena” will. This dreadful story is about a single mother who moves to South Italy with her daughter after her divorce. The two hope to start a new life together in a new house. Their new house will start a new life for them, but it won’t be the happy one they longed for. After the loss of the daughter’s first tooth, she becomes haunted by a “tooth fairy” that lives in a closet inside the house and deranges her. This movie, full of gore and unsettling occurrences, is assured to give you a petrifying adventure.

Image courtesy of bloody-disgusting.com

If a thrill isn’t what you’re looking for this weekend, check out these other fabulousCLideas:

Many small town girls dream of leaving behind what they have always known and seeing the world. However, not many actually get the chance to do it. This classy co-ed is living out that dream; not only being away from her home in West Virginia to go to school in South Carolina, but she is also traveling overseas.

Ashton Harvey is an honors student at Clemson University where she maintains a high GPA and a steady job as a camp counselor for Clemson’s Youth Learning Institute. Keeping a job and her grades up isn’t an accomplishment for her though, because those things are not an option in her book. Ashton is the kind of girl who thinks going above and beyond the norm is what makes you special, so that’s exactly what she’s doing.

To make herself stand out from the rest, she applied to a selective program – offered only to Clemson honors students – to study European history and politics abroad. Within this program, she was able to fly to Germany to spend 10 days sightseeing, learning culture and meeting and studying with important government leaders.

Image from the personal photo collection of Ashton Harvey

“At first I applied to the program for the free plane ticket to Germany, but then I fell in love with the culture and I became fascinated with the European Union,” she said.

Other than excelling in her school and studying foreign policies, Ashton is actively involved with the University. This past year, as a freshman, she was voted onto the Clemson Undergraduate Student Government (CUSG) Senate. She is on the University Services Committee, where she helps with projects that directly affect students.

Not only does Ashton give back to the students of Clemson University, but she gives back to the less fortunate. She is part of a student organization called FeelGood that raises money for The Hunger Project to empower women and children in Third World countries so they can sustain a life on their own. To raise the money, the organization sells freshly made grilled cheese sandwiches to students on their way to class.

“Every Wednesday, I make gourmet grilled cheeses in front of our library,” Ashton said. “I personally donate a lot of money to the Hunger Project because they are so good.”

Of course, this intelligent college girl isn’t all work and no play, though. For fun, Ashton and her friends like to go to downtown Greenville to shop.

“My friends and I go shopping just to get a pair of socks and come back to our dorm with 15 new dresses,” she said.